What if you run a good business but aren’t aware of the functional requirements and data
technicalities? Here, a Professional Business Analyst can help you. Business analytics is an
essential component of any business nowadays. From innovation to strategy optimization,
Business analytics can help you with everything to achieve new heights in your industry.
The role of a business analyst has changed over time, from merely gathering data to taking on
more responsibility involving innovation and optimization. Thus, there has been a higher
demand for business analyst jobs than in previous years. They play a significant role in filling
the gap between business requirements and technical solutions.
According to a survey by Zion Market Research, the worldwide market for business analytics is
predicted to reach USD 93.3 billion by 2025. Hence, this makes business analysis a great
career opportunity. However, a business analyst should possess a certain skill set. So, in this
article, we’ll delve into some essential skills to crack business analyst jobs for freshers.
Meanwhile, experienced ones can also add some of these Business Analytics Skills to their
portfolios for career enhancement.
Also Read: Co-Education- Pros and Cons
Business Analyst Roles and Responsibilities
Have a look at some of the core responsibilities of a Business Analyst-
Communicate
Business analysts are the people who communicate well with the stakeholders to understand
their needs. They act as a bridge between technical and non-technical people to deliver the best
results possible. Therefore, a business analyst needs to be a skilled communicator and
storyteller to turn data into action.
Data Interpretation
No matter how many employees a company hires as data analysts, it is the responsibility of the
Business Analysts can use this data to achieve targeted goals and objectives. They are experts in
transforming complex data into valuable insights through various techniques and Business
intelligence software.
Quality Assurance and Testing
Business analysts design testing strategies, verify information, and ensure solutions meet
quality standards. They collaborate with the quality assurance (QA) teams to achieve the best
outcomes. They also participate in user acceptance testing (UAT) and provide feedback to
developers to address issues and refine the final product.
Also Read: Why More Females Are Doing MBA?
What are the Top Business Analytics Skills?
Business Analysts are not limited to single roles and responsibilities; they have to perform multiple duties. Therefore, a business analyst must possess a solid skill set that includes technical and non-technical abilities.
Business Analytics Skills: Technical
The following are essential Technical skills that are beneficial to business analysts:
Data Analysis
Business analysts should know the major data analysis tools and techniques, such as Tableau,
Power BI, Excel, Python, etc. Knowledge of this software will help business analysts extract
valuable data from complex data sheets.
Statistical Analysis
When an analyst has a strong command of statistics, they can use both descriptive and
prominent statistical techniques to extract significant details from data.
Also Read: Creativity vs Knowledge – Which Is Better?
Knowledge of Business Intelligence (BI) Tools
A good Business analyst should be aware of BI Tools such as SAP Business Objects, Datapine, MicroStrategy, and Microsoft Power BI. By effectively using these tools, they can perform functions like data visualization, performance management, data mining, analytics, and more.
Process Modeling and Analysis
Business process modeling and analysis refer to studying possible risks and identifying problem
areas in your company. Hence, professionals must know related tools, such as Business
process modeling, UML diagrams, Value stream Mapping, and more.
Agile Techniques
The agile technique divides projects into many flexible stages or sprints. Jira, Asana, Wrike, and
Kanban is a popular tool used in Agile methodologies. Agile-trained business analysts can
efficiently participate in sprint planning and other related activities.
Knowledge of Programming Languages
Programming languages play an important role in Business Analytics. Hands-on programming
experience can help these professionals perform more efficient and effective data analysis.
Python, R, SQL, C, and PHP are popular languages for managing, manipulating, and presenting data.
However, it would be a great add-on if you knew about software like CRM (customer relationship management), enterprise resource planning (ERP), SAS, and SPSS.
Also Read: Difference Between Group Discussion, Panel Discussion and Debate
Business Analytics Skills: Non-Technical
To handle things more efficiently, a business analyst needs these soft skills in addition to
technical ones. Have a look-
Business Savvy
What if business analysts don’t know business expertise? They can’t even fit this profile then.
Therefore, having a solid grasp of business principles and strategy is the most important
Business Analytics Skill.
Strong Emotional Quotient
In addition to business and technical knowledge, emotional intelligence should also be
considered. These skills help the professional establish trust and good relationships with
stakeholders.
Adaptable in Every Situation
The third skill on the list of business analyst skills is Flexibility. Business analysts should be
flexible and willing to modify their strategy if needed.
Also Read: Online Vs Offline Shopping
Proficiency in Communication
As mentioned above, business analysts also act between technical and non-technical
individuals. Business analysts not only communicate verbally but in writing as well to share
ideas, information, and viewpoints. Hence, proficiency in communication is a very important skill
for connecting with all the team members.
Excellent Problem-Solving Skills
The next Business Business Analytics Skill is efficiency in critical thinking and problem-solving.
Experts in this field have excellent skills in analyzing scenarios, anticipating problems, and
suggesting the best solution. Here, the skills of real-time problem-solving are very important.
Strong Negotiation Skills
Negotiation is the next most important skill any business analyst must possess. Negotiating
each stage of the project completely depends on the skill set of these experts. Additionally,
business analysts often need to handle multiple stakeholders, manage time limits, and save
resources simultaneously. To manage all such tasks, they should have excellent negotiation
skills.
Also Read: Government Winter Internships for Students in India
Wrapping Up –
In conclusion, we have covered the most essential business analytics skills needed to become a
business analytics professional. Soft skills and technical ability are equally important for success
as a business analyst. However, the experts should be up-to-date with the upcoming trends as
the field of Business Analysts continues to evolve in the future.
If you want to pursue a career in this field, these abilities will help you become a competent and
successful business analyst. Having a great learning attitude can also help you become an
asset to the organization.
Also Read – Top MBA Colleges in India
